Aston Villa defender Micah Richards can force his way back into the England setup.

That is the sentiment of Villa boss Tim Sherwood who feels the 27-year-old can return to the heights he reached during his early days with Manchester City.

Richards made his Villa debut in the season opening fixture at Bournemouth, captaining the West Midlands club to a 1-0 win, and Sherwood is confident the 13-time England international can turn Three Lions boss Roy Hodgson's head, starting with Friday night's monumental clash with former rivals Manchester United.

"We hope this is the big stage for him to show what he can do," said Sherwood. "He has been outstanding since he has been here which is why he has the armband on.

"He had very little football last season, but he has had a good pre-season - injury free. If we can keep him healthy, I am sure he will get back in the England squad.

"I hope he proves to be a real bargain. That is the aim. We are delighted to have Micah here and if he can reproduce what we know he is capable of, we are getting him in his prime.

"He has a good aura about him and the boys look up to him. On the pitch he leads by example and he is vocal as well. He is not frightened to share his opinion with them.

"It is a great stage for him - no bigger than this one."